Which of the following is part of identifying emergencies?

Identifying emergencies fundamentally involves recognizing the signs and symptoms presented by an individual in distress. This process is crucial as it allows responders to quickly assess the situation and determine the urgency and nature of the medical issue at hand. By being aware of what signs and symptoms indicate a potential emergency—such as difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or signs of a heart attack—one can make informed decisions about the necessary immediate actions.

In contrast, making a diagnosis typically requires a comprehensive assessment and may involve diagnostic tools that go beyond immediate observations. Administering medication is part of the treatment phase that occurs after an emergency has been identified, and referring to a secondary practitioner generally occurs when further medical evaluations or treatments are needed beyond the primary response. Thus, recognizing signs and symptoms is the foundational step in effectively identifying and responding to emergencies.